Explore the History Of Anuradhapura in a Private Guided Tour
5.0
11 Ratings
Anuradhapura
Discover Anuradhapura's ancient wonders on a private guided tour. Uncover secrets of Sinhala architecture and immerse in Sri Lankan culture and Buddhism.
Duration: 5 hours
Cancellation: 1 day learn more
Highlights
  • Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi - This is a historic sacred fig tree (Ficus religiosa) located in the Mahamewuna Garden in Anuradhapura.

  • 89WX+C4H - Lovamahapaya is a structure situated between Ruwanweliseya and Sri Mahabodiya in the ancient city of Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka. It is also known as the Brazen Palace or Lohaprasadaya due to its bronze-tiled roof.

  • Ruwanwelisaya - The Ruwanweli Maha Seya, also called the Swarnamali Maha Seya (meaning ‘the Great Thupa’), is a stupa (a dome-shaped structure containing relics) in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka. It houses two quarts or one Dona of the Buddha’s relics, making it the largest collection of his relics in the world. It was constructed by Sinhalese King Dutugemunu around 140 B.C., who became the ruler of Sri Lanka after defeating the Chola King Elāra (Ellalan) in battle.

  • Twin Baths (Kuttam Pokuna) - Kuttam Pokuna (twin ponds or pools) are well-preserved ancient bathing tanks in Sri Lanka.

  • Samadhi Statue - The Samadhi Buddha is a renowned statue located in Mahamevnāwa Park in Anuradhapura. The statue depicts the meditation posture associated with the Buddha’s first enlightenment. It stands 7 feet 3 inches tall and is carved from granite marble.

  • Abhayagiri Dagaba - Abhayagiri Vihāra was a significant monastery site for Theravada, Mahayana, and Vajrayana Buddhism, located in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka.

  • Main Refectory Of Abayagiri Monastery - This alms-giving site, located near the Uttara Mula, is considered the main refectory of the Abayagiri Monastery. It is a square building measuring 42.7 meters on each side. Excavations have revealed four stages of construction dating back to the 1st century BC. Visitors can see some rice canoes here.

  • Eth Pokuna - This enormous man-made pond, known as “Eth Pokuna” or “Elephant Pond,” is located near Lankaramaya in Anuradhapura. The rectangular pond measures 159 meters in length, 52.7 meters in width, and 9.5 meters in depth, with a capacity of 75,000 cubic meters of water. The name “Elephant Pond” reflects its large size. It is part of the Abhayagiri Monastery complex, which spans over 500 acres. The tank is constructed from large stone blocks arranged at an angle along the walls. There are three sets of stairs leading to the bottom, located on the south, north, and east sides. The bottom is unpaved.

  • Moonstone or Sandakada pahana - Sandakada Pahana, also known as Moonstone, is a distinctive feature of ancient Sri Lankan architecture. It is an intricately carved semi-circular stone slab, typically placed at the base of staircases and entrances. First appearing in the latter part of the Anuradhapura period, the sandakada pahana evolved through the Polonnaruwa, Gampola, and Kandyan periods. Historians believe it symbolizes the cycle of Samsāra in Buddhism.

  • Jethawanaramaya Stupa - The Jetavanaramaya is a stupa located in the ruins of Jetavana in the sacred world heritage city of Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka. Construction of the stupa was initiated by Mahasena of Anuradhapura (273–301) following the destruction of the Mahavihara, and completed by his son Maghavanna I. It is believed to enshrine a part of a sash or belt tied by the Buddha. After visiting the stupa, visitors can explore the Jethawanaramaya Museum.

  • Isurumuniya Temple - Isurumuniya is a Buddhist temple located near Tissa Wewa (Tisa tank) in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka. The temple features four notable carvings: the Isurumuniya Lovers, Elephant Pond, and The Royal Family.

  • Ranmasu Uyana - Ranmasu Uyana is a park in Sri Lanka that contains the ancient Magul Uyana (Royal Gardens). It is situated near Isurumuni Vihara and Tissa Wewa in the ancient sacred city of Anuradhapura. The site features a stargate map carved into a stone.

  • Wessagiriya - Vessagiriya, also known as Issarasamanarama, is an ancient Buddhist forest monastery that is part of the ruins of Anuradhapura, one of Sri Lanka’s ancient capitals. Located about half a mile south of Isurumuniya, the site is set among boulders. It was established during the reign of King Devanampiya Tissa (mid-3rd century BC) and expanded during the reign of King Kasyapa (473 - 491 AD) to accommodate around five hundred monks.

What's Included
  • Help for disabled travelers if requested
  • Snacks
  • Umbrella
What's Not Included
  • Enrance ticket/Admission for anuradapura site (this ticket cover every visiting point of tour) = 25$
  • Private transportation
Additional Information

Explore the ancient World Heritage site of Anuradhapura effortlessly with this guided 5-hour tour. Anuradhapura, the first capital of Sri Lanka, boasts stunning architecture that will leave you in awe and reveal the secrets of the ancient Sinhala civilization. Navigating this historic site on your own can be challenging, but with a knowledgeable guide, you’ll delve into the area’s rich history and visit landmarks such as Jayasrimabodhi, Ruwanweli Stupa, Jethawanaramaya Stupa, and more.

Additionally, you’ll gain insights into Buddhism and Sri Lankan culture from its origins to the present day, making this an unparalleled experience for tourists.

  • you have to remove your shooes when you enter to secret places
Location
Flower shops Sri Maha Bodhi
Please go to the main entrance gate of jayasrimabodhi.ill be there with a white T-shirt. Or ill come to your place.
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings
5.0
(11 Ratings)
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Bartbv5115fp
Apr 13, 2024
Informative and fun - Took a tour to Ancient town together with Ajee. He knew a lot about everything there. I also had many questions about Buddhism, all of which he was able to answer in detail. In addition, his company is also just fun!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Daydream30980701835
Mar 16, 2024
Gentle guidance - Ajith is such a lovely and considerate man. It appears to me that there is a delicate love and care for culture and this land he lives on. Further I have experienced a man full of knowledge about philosophy, history and his surrounding in the past and present. To be on the road with Ajith feels like there‘s a gentle touch on your shoulder and one is guided welcomed through the jungle of knowledge and attractions, but also brought to local places to perceive authentic sri lanka. I appreciate the time with Ajith and recommend him highly as a guide!
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Reginava677hl
Feb 23, 2024
Great experience in Anuradhapura - We had a great experience with visiting the ancient of Anuradhapura. Ajee has a lot of experience and loves to tell about it.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
964beniamins
Feb 19, 2024
Wonderful tour - Amazing experience. Very good history knowledge and a very friendly person ! Thank you again Ajith, for sure we can recommend you !
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S8234ecsandrob
Feb 9, 2024
great listener and very tolerant tour guide - I had a great tour with Ajith in the old city of Anuradhapura . He is extremely knowledgeable, friendly and professional. He has a deep understanding of different cultures and can draw cross-cultural interferences .
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Tour16916540650
Jan 27, 2024
Bike tour highly recommended - Great tour with Ajee. Highly recommended. He accompanied us on a bike tour and explained all the important sights to us very well. It was really a lot of fun
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Marloesw92
Jan 23, 2024
Great tour with a guide that knows his history! - Ajith was an amazing guide, very knowledgable, friendly and professional. He knows a lot about Buddhism and Sri Lanka's history. We had a great day!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
446lottel
Jan 22, 2024
Learned loads! - Ajith helped us around Anuradhapura’s sights with lots of history knowledge and background facts on buddhism! So eager to help and such a nice guy :)
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Sabrinafc5035fa
Jan 16, 2024
Very good guide - Thank you very much to Ajith for this day. I learned a lot about the history of this beautiful country which Ajith told me with passion. He’s an excellent guide!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
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up to 10 guests
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June 2024
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